Amazon announces Kindle apps

In an interesting move from Amazon, the etailer has announced it is to release a software development kit that will see apps developed for the Kindle platform.

Among the suggestions, for what the Kindle apps might materialise as, are cookbook add-ons that can suggest recipes based on input criteria, travel book-related apps suggesting activities as well as word games and puzzles.

"We've heard from lots of developers over the past two years who are excited to build on top of Kindle", said Ian Freed, VP of Amazon Kindle in the press release.

"The Kindle Development Kit opens many possibilities - we look forward to being surprised by what developers invent".

Handmark is confirmed as building an active Zagat guide, Sonic Boom is building word games and puzzles and EA has said it plans to get involved on the gaming side too.

The Kindle Development Kit includes sample code, documentation, and the Kindle Simulator, which helps developers build and test their content by simulating the 6-inch Kindle and 9.7-inch Kindle DX on Mac, PC, and Linux desktops.

There's more info over on http://www.amazon.com/kdk/ where you can sign up to be notified when the limited beta starts next month and those not in on the first wave of access will get "wait-listed".

We will keep you posted on Kindle apps news, but in the meantime, let us know your thoughts on the news - or what apps you might like to see - in the comments box below.